During the late 1980s, I was beginning a backpacking trip to the European continent with a companion. Because my travel mate was interested in enrolling in graduate studies in New York, we had arranged a fortnight visit there on the way to London.
We reached the graduate housing, a sizeable 10-storey building on the Manhattan's Upper West Side called International House. After dropping our bags, we headed straight to the dining hall, where we grabbed food, found a table, and started talking to people eating there.
Beside me was an Iraqi man studying engineering at a prestigious New York university. He wanted to know what I my profession was, and I explained that I had newly finished with a science degree and had been performing experiments with electron microscopy.
He noted that there was an microscopy facility at Columbia University – close to the engineering faculty, which was how he knew about it. He proposed that I consider applying for a position with them. I dismissed the idea, explaining that I was heading off to Europe and, even more importantly, I didn’t have a US visa.
A day later I ventured out, returning to the canteen that evening. The engineering student walked over to me and informed me that he had set up a meeting for me with the director of the microscopy lab at Columbia. Since he had made the arrangement, I showed up for the discussion – but immediately told my host that I was without a work permit, so I was unable to accept the role.
Reflecting the city's spirit – a city where opportunities abound – she said: “We can make that happen. How soon can you begin?” I didn't board the aircraft to London.
I held that position for a trio of years. One of the benefits was that I was granted free tuition at Columbia, and I used the opportunity to finish a postgrad program in international relations.
I lost touch with him and I am unaware of his name, but his selfless gesture altered my destiny in numerous aspects. I would never have had the courage or self-belief to approach someone at an elite institution and ask for a job. And, I had long dreamed to study abroad, but could never have afforded it without that tuition waiver.
What's more, that role at the university paved the way for a job in Zurich where I encountered my beautiful French husband, with whom I am raising a family of four kids. This was a pivotal life event. That benevolent individual changed my trajectory in life, and I’m always appreciative.
What is the Most Generous Act a Unknown Person Has Shown for You?
From making your day to altering your path, we want to hear about unexpected interactions that have stuck with you.
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